Governor Willie Obiano has asked the citizenry to always live a life of giving and exist for others.
Governor Obiano was speaking during a solemn mass of rededication of Saint Joseph Catholic Church, Aguleri.
The mass was celebrated by His Eminence Francis Cardinal Arinze.
Being his home church, Governor Obiano single handedly rebuilt it as a personal commitment to his Catholic faith and a practicing Christian.
The clergy including Most Reverend Valerian Okeke, Most Reverend Dennis Isizoh, Most Reverend Hillary Okeke, the political class including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Primus Odili, the Traditional Ruler of Nteje, Igwe Roland Odegbo, cabinet members of Aguleri Traditional Institution , among others, attended the mass.
Governor Obiano said that the move was a demonstration of his love for God and humanity, adding that himself and his wife have engaged in humanitarian services for over the years, saying that the choice of Saint Joseph was because of its rich history as the oldest church in the Southern protectorate.
Describing the day as special, the Governor appreciated his Eminence for coming in person to perform the function, and called on the people of Aguleri to increase their commitment to God and Church through propagation of the gospel.
Earlier in a homily, Cardinal Francis Arinze said the church as a symbol of the New Jerusalem represents the body of Jesus Christ, and commended the Governor’s gesture.
He thanked the people of Aguleri for accepting the church, urging Christians to channel their resources to the church and helping the poor.
The Auxiliary Bishop of Onitsha Diocese, Most Reverend Isizoh, who gave a brief history of Saint Joseph Church, explained that the artifacts and design of the church are deliberate, adding that the
church having been consecrated by His Eminence is now more recognized the world over.
While urging Christians to emulate the Governor’s gesture, Most Reverend Isizoh, emphasized that the Governor did not build the church because he is at the State’s helm of affairs, asking God to accept his sacrifice.
Speaking to the ABS, the member representing Onitsha Two Constituency, Mr. Eddy Ibuzo, said that living a life of giving is expected of everyone, irrespective of religion, status or class.
Prayer of dedication, consecration of the alter and the entire church with chrism oil and incense by His Eminence, amidst tunes and renditions by the choir featured at the mass.
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